Patient-Physician Boundaries

In the state of Florida, exercising influence within a patient-physician relationship for purpose of engaging a patient in sexual activity is unlawful and a basis for disciplinary action to be taken against the physician’s license. As stated in s. 458.331(1)(j), F.S., “a patient shall be presumed to be incapable of giving free, full, and informed consent to sexual activity with his or her physician.” Additionally, with the advent of social media and other electronic communications, the boundaries between the physician and patient can become blurred. Therefore, it is important to remain aware of these boundaries as you develop your professional relationships with your patients.

Additional information regarding sexual misconduct between a physician and a patient can be found in s. 458.329, F.S. If you are aware of a violation of this nature that may have occurred, please contact our Consumer Services Unit at (850) 245-4339 or MQA.ConsumerServices@flhealth.gov.